PM Unveils Rs. 4,000 Crore Projects In Kochi, Kerala

In a momentous event, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated three pivotal infrastructure projects in Kochi, Kerala, signaling a significant stride towards transforming India’s ports, shipping, and waterways sector. These projects, collectively worth over Rs 4,000 crore, align with the Prime Minister’s vision to enhance the nation’s maritime capabilities and foster self-sufficiency.

New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

The inauguration included the unveiling of the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited, a national pride and an engineering marvel. With a length of 310 meters and built at an investment of ₹1799 crores, the NDD is set to accommodate large vessels, including aircraft carriers and other significant ships. This strategic asset is equipped with critical capabilities for emergency situations, reflecting India’s engineering prowess and commitment to technological innovation.

International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) of CSL

India’s first fully developed pure ship repair ecosystem, the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), was also inaugurated. Representing an investment of ₹970 crores, ISRF will add 25% capacity to the country’s ship repair industry. Located at Willingdon Island, Kochi, ISRF aims to modernize and expand CSL’s existing ship repair capabilities, positioning itself as a global ship repair hub. The facility is crucial for planned refits of India’s Naval and Coast Guard ships during emergencies, enhancing India’s maritime preparedness.

LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited

The third project inaugurated was the LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) at Puthuvypeen, Kochi. Boasting state-of-the-art infrastructure and a storage capacity of 15,400 MT, this terminal aims to achieve a turnover of 1.2 MMTPA. It will play a pivotal role in ensuring a steady supply of LPG, benefiting millions of households and businesses in the region. The terminal’s connectivity through a 3.5 km Cross Country Pipeline further emphasizes its strategic importance.

Vision for ‘Viksit Bharat’ and Maritime Development

Prime Minister Modi underscored the role of these projects in realizing the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). He highlighted the reforms and advancements in the ports, shipping, and waterways sector over the last decade, resulting in increased investments, employment opportunities, and growth. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of India’s maritime strength in global trade, mentioning agreements like the Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Future Initiatives

The Prime Minister discussed the recently launched Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, a roadmap to reinforce India’s maritime prowess. He reiterated the government’s commitment to building mega ports, shipbuilding, and ship-repairing infrastructure. Underlining the significance of these initiatives, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, shared that they are expected to bring an investment of around ₹45,000 Cr. in the sector with employment generation exceeding 50,000 people.